In this article, we will look at the 5 worst states to work in the US. We have also discussed the state of labor unions and occupational fatal rates in the US that have direct implications for workers. If you are interested in reading about that along with a more extensive list, head straight to the 15 Worst States to Work in the US.
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5. North Dakota
Union Affiliation Rank: 15
Fatality Rate Rank: 3
Average Rank: 9
North Dakota, with 34 work-related deaths reported in 2021, is one of the most unsafe states for workers, according to a recent report. Despite other states recording higher fatality counts, North Dakota tops the list for workplace hazards. With an alarming rate of 1.7 OSHA work-related fatalities per hundred thousand workers, the state has become concerned for workplace safety.
The reasons behind North Dakota’s dismal worker safety record are multifaceted. One issue is the state’s lenient Worker Compensation laws, coupled with a lack of strict regulatory oversight. Unlike many states with their own employee safety programs, North Dakota relies solely on federal OSHA enforcement, with a paltry seven inspectors assigned to cover the entire state. This shortage translates to an estimate of 150 years to inspect every employer, leaving workers at higher risk in sectors like agriculture, construction, and oil fields.
4. South Carolina
Union Affiliation Rank: 1
Fatality Rate Rank: 17
Average Rank: 9
South Carolina ranks among the worst states to live and work in, according to a CNBC report for 2023. The state’s dismal performance is confirmed by its high rate of occupational deaths. Additionally, South Carolina faces major challenges in terms of overall physical and mental distress, ranking in the top 10. Legal protections for workers are limited, and the state also struggles with a high violent crime rate. Despite these concerning indicators, South Carolina’s economy remains strong, boasting a low unemployment rate.
3. Idaho
Union Affiliation Rank: 8
Fatality Rate Rank: 9
Average Rank: 8.5
The state has minimal workers’ rights protections, including weak labor laws and limited union presence, leading to lower wages and fewer benefits. Occupational safety regulations are less stringent, increasing workplace hazards. Limited access to healthcare and education exacerbates workers’ challenges. Additionally, the state’s heavy reliance on industries like agriculture and manufacturing often offer low-paying jobs with little room for advancement.
2. Wyoming
Union Affiliation Rank: 13
Fatality Rate Rank: 1
Average Rank: 7
Wyoming is one of the deadliest states for workers in the country, with 13 workplace fatalities per 100,000 workers in 2020. Despite a 23% decrease in on-the-job fatalities in 2021, it still ranked worst overall. The state’s heavy reliance on industries like agriculture, transportation, mining, and construction contributes to its high workplace fatality rate. Issues like fragmented oversight and limited accountability further compound the problem. Efforts to improve safety, such as voluntary programs and industry alliances, have not yielded sufficient results. Hence, urgent action is needed to prioritize worker safety and hold employers accountable for hazardous conditions.
1. South Dakota
Union Affiliation Rank: 3
Fatality Rate Rank: 5
Average Rank: 4
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, South Dakota is the worst state for workers given the concerning rise in fatal work injuries. In 2022 alone, 27 lives were lost due to work-related incidents, a disturbing increase noted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This bleak trend contrasts with the nationwide statistics, revealing a 5.7% spike in fatal work injuries across the country.
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